Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Even better than Olive Garden’s infamous recipe, this Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is an Italian-inspired soup loaded with hearty beef, plenty of veggies, beans, and orzo. Comforting and delicious, it’s perfect for easy meal prep and cold winter nights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 50 minutes total time, this soup is ready in a flash, making it great for busy weeknights.
• Hearty & Filling: The combination of beef, beans, and orzo provides a satisfying meal that keeps hunger at bay.
• Flavorful & Savory: Packed with herbs and spices, every spoonful bursts with flavor that will warm your heart.
• Versatile Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store it easily for future meals or lunches.
• Nutrient-Rich: Featuring a variety of vegetables and legumes, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in preparing your Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe).

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot while ensuring everything mixes well.
• Measuring cups: Essential for accuracy in ingredient proportions to enhance flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 whole carrots (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Soup

• 6-8 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons basil
• 2 whole bay leaves

Tomato Base

• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

Pasta Addition

• 3/4 cup dried orzo pasta

How to Make Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking into crumbles. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3–4 minutes or until tender. Add the garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the broth, tomato sauce, beans, seasonings, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine and adjust seasonings to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 25–30 minutes or until vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 4: Cook Orzo Pasta

Add the uncooked orzo pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store pasta and orzo separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Serve Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Serving Pasta E Fagioli is all about enhancing its comforting flavors with delicious accompaniments. Here are some great ways to serve this hearty soup that will impress your family and friends.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with garlic breadsticks for a crunchy contrast.

Garnished with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
• Mozzarella Balls: Add mini mozzarella balls for a creamy bite.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
• Italian Chopped Salad: This salad offers a colorful and zesty complement to the soup.

As Part of a Meal

• With Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken breast for extra protein.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted seasonal vegetables as a nutritious side dish.

How to Perfect Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

Perfecting your Pasta E Fagioli takes just a few key techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs throughout the cooking process.
• Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavor development.
• Cook Orzo Separately: To avoid mushiness, cook orzo separately and add it just before serving.
• Store Wisely: Store pasta and soup separately to maintain texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

To create a well-rounded meal, pair your Pasta E Fagioli with these delightful side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up the soup.
2. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil is light and refreshing.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a burst of flavor that balances the soup.
4. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini make an excellent vegetarian side.
6. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables create a fun starter or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing this Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe). Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not cooking the vegetables before adding other ingredients can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure to sauté onions, carrots, and celery until tender for optimal taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding orzo too early might result in mushy pasta. Cook the orzo separately or add it at the right time for a perfect texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Relying solely on measurements without tasting can be a mistake. Adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your preferences as you cook.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: Choosing a regular broth instead of low-sodium can make the soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness.
• Not Storing Properly: Mixing all components before storage can lead to soggy pasta. Store pasta and soup separately to maintain texture.
• Forgetting About Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like parsley and cheese can diminish presentation and flavor. Remember to add these final touches before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months, but it’s best if consumed sooner.

Reheating Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe).

What is Pasta E Fagioli?

Pasta E Fagioli is a traditional Italian soup made with pasta and beans. This version features ground beef and plenty of vegetables for added flavor.

Can I customize the beans used in this recipe?

Yes! You can mix and match different types of beans based on your preference. Black beans or navy beans work well too.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Pasta E Fagioli, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses orzo, you can substitute it with ditalini, small shells, or any other pasta shape you enjoy.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time for this Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is about 50 minutes, which includes both prep and cooking time.

What can I serve with Pasta E Fagioli?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta E Fagioli (Olive Garden Copycat Recipe) is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or switch up the proteins. It’s perfect for meal prep during busy weeks or cozy dinners at home. Give it a try!